Each time a class completes a 6-week English at Work course, we hold an end-of-course ceremony. The purpose of this ceremony is to celebrate the students’ hard work and their progress. Host business contacts usually join EW staff, the instructor, and students, to congratulate the class, hand out certificates and gifts, and eat cake.
In April, Byron, one of our Guero’s students, had a surprise in store for us. He had written a note of thanks and asked Beverly, the instructor, to help him translate it into English. Then he courageously read his note during the ceremony. Standing to face Rob and Cathy, owners of Guero’s and his bosses, Byron read the following:
Dear patrons (employers, advocates, benefactors, sponsors, supporters), Esteemed teachers,
On behalf of my classmates and me, I have the pleasure of expressing these words of gratitude.
To our patrons for being so generous with us, because – aside from teaching us your language – you are helping us economically.
To our teachers for having patience in teaching us.
For all your help, thank you.
Many thanks,
Byron
Guero’s Taco Bar Employee
English Language Student